Treachery

Episode 2

My parents were raised in tough environments, and although they don’t talk much about it, we know enough to understand that it shaped them. It’s why they go above and beyond to raise us in a home where we feel safe, loved, and seen.

Henry and I were the victims of an abundance of love. Growing up, we watched our parents support each other through everything. They were affectionate, sometimes too much so, and never hid their affection from us. Sure, they argued, but not in front of us—not loudly, anyway. The tension was sometimes there, hanging in the room, but they always managed to keep it together.

“And you get to serve the table today,” Mom added with a smug little smile as I kissed her cheek.

Great. Not exactly the relaxing start I wanted, but at least the rest of the day was still mine.

Brunch was more than generous—suspiciously so. It felt like we were making up for a week of missed meals. I narrowed my eyes at the spread.

“You all missed breakfast too, didn’t you?” I asked, eyeing them suspiciously.

Their laughter gave it away immediately.

“It was between you and your brother,” Dad said through chuckles, “and unfortunately for you, he made it down first.”

“That's so unfair,” I groaned, shooting Henry a glare.

“In all fairness, you were last,” he smirked, biting into a croissant like a villain in a soap opera.

“Whatever. It wasn’t a fair race.”

“To make up for it... how about five hundred dollars for everyone?” Dad offered, grinning like he hadn’t just caused a sibling war.

“Plus a thousand for shopping?” I said with a hopeful smile.

His eyes widened. I could see Mom’s expression shift to her signature don’t you dare frown.

“Tom, you’re spoiling them too much,” she said, arms crossed. “We talked about this. Yes, we want to give them the best, but they also need to learn responsibility.”

“I know, I know,” he replied, handing me and Henry the money anyway. “I can’t help it sometimes, love. I’ll try to be better… after today.”

“Thanks, Dad,” I said, giving him a quick kiss on the cheek before heading back to my room.

I needed to sort out a few things in my closet before heading out for a shopping day with London.